Police in Chachoengsao uncovered a shocking illegal operation housing hazardous chemicals within a warehouse complex in the Plang Yao district. A massive investigation launched yesterday, November 10, revealed that nine out of ten warehouses were being used for illicit factory activities, with the primary focus being the illegal recycling of hazardous materials.
The probe, carried out in partnership with the Department of Industrial Works, uncovered that the warehouses were being leased by Chinese investors who had set up the operations without the necessary permits.
Among those arrested was 59 year old Nirach, an Indian national, who was caught red-handed operating machinery for sorting plastic waste in one of the warehouses. When questioned, Nirach admitted to installing the machinery and confirmed that no legal permits had been obtained.
“No legal permits were obtained for this operation.”
It wasn’t just the lack of permits that raised alarm. During the inspection, police found dangerous hazardous substances, including heavy metals such as lead and arsenic—materials classed as highly dangerous by the Department of Industrial Works. In a further disturbing discovery, five warehouses were found to be storing hazardous waste in direct violation of strict environmental safety regulations, said an investigating officer.
“If these hazardous materials, such as lead and arsenic, are not properly managed, they pose serious risks of contamination. These substances could easily enter the food chain, endangering both humans and animals.”
In a swift response, police seized the machinery and hazardous materials found at the site, and legal action was taken against the warehouse owner and anyone else involved in the illegal operations.
This alarming discovery has once again highlighted the crucial importance of adhering to strict industrial and environmental safety regulations, particularly when dealing with materials that could have disastrous consequences for both the environment and public health.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news.
Why do illegal factories opt for hazardous material recycling without permits?
Illegal operations often prioritize profit over safety, bypassing regulations that ensure environmental and public health protection.
How could hazardous materials like lead and arsenic impact the local ecosystem if mismanaged?
Improper handling may lead to contamination, affecting soil, and water sources, and entering the food chain, harming both humans and wildlife.
What if authorities failed to uncover such illegal operations?
Unchecked, these operations could lead to severe environmental damage, health crises, and economic losses due to contamination.
What are the potential long-term health risks associated with exposure to heavy metals?
Prolonged exposure can cause neurological damage, kidney dysfunction, and increased risk of cancer, profoundly impacting community health.
How can stricter regulations prevent future illegal industrial activities?
Enhanced monitoring, tougher penalties, and public awareness can deter illegal setups, ensuring safer industrial practices and environmental protection.
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